Il Dolce Far Niente…

This past week I’ve been indulging in the Italian lifestyle, “il dolce far niente” - literally translated to the sweetness of doing nothing. This is a philosophy that Italians have mastered. Moments where time slows, you admire the simplicity of life, and nothing matters but the current moment. Even though my Capricorn-driven personality gets the wrap for “all work no play”, I found a local park to bask in the sun and appreciate the moment for hours. We are in Mercury Retrograde so it’s not a time to start big projects, rather give yourself time to rejuvenate, re-assess, and review.

I went to an amazing intimate breakfast and discussion hosted by The Florentine magazine with Gabriele Corcos and Debi Mazar. They are such a magnetic couple and a true love story. You know when you are watching a couple and can just see the fire they have inside for each other? It is so beautiful to witness. They discussed moving back to Florence after meeting here 20 years ago. He picked up his entire life to move to the United States within a month. Debi promised Gabriele’s mom that she would one day bring him back and that time has now come. Being a Los Angelino, I could identify with the lifestyle differences between Los Angeles/New York compared to Italy. Gabriele recalls the excitement as a child waiting for the first harvest of strawberries (unlike in the U.S. you can get whatever you want, regardless of whether it is in season.) Debi voiced how the pandemic really made people do inventory on what is important in life and how they are both looking forward to the simplicity of living in the countryside. Gabriele is working on repairing his garden which the recent devastating fires and drought have greatly disrupted while Debi settles into her Tuscan lifestyle driving around in her new electric Fiat Cinquecento

Have you ever eaten at a restaurant and years later you still dream about that meal? 10 years ago, when I was in Florence, I had one of the best meals in my life, so I was determined to make sure I went to Buca Mario and sure enough, it did not disappoint. This white linen authentic Italian restaurant has been around since 1886 and their specialty, Bistecca all Fiorentina. If your future travel plans include Florence, you must put this on your itinerary!

This weekend I have a very special trip to my favorite place, Cinque Terre. 10 years ago when I went to this cliffside town, I spread my dad’s ashes so it’s only appropriate to go back and celebrate him on the anniversary of his passing. Looking forward to sharing my experience next Monday with you!